Senate Resolution No. 321

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMEMORATING the 20th Annual Staten Island Black
History Town Hall Meeting on February 22, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those events that celebrate and honor the rich history,
culture, and contributions of African Americans in the State of New York
and across the Nation; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 20th Annual Staten Island Black History Town Hall
Meeting on February 22, 2025, organized by First Central Baptist Church
of Staten Island under the esteemed leadership of Rev. Dr. Demetrius S.
Carolina; and

WHEREAS, For two decades, this esteemed gathering has served as a
critical platform for education, discussion, and advocacy, fostering
meaningful dialogue on issues impacting the African American community
while uplifting the legacy of Black excellence, resilience, and
progress; and

WHEREAS, This year's event, centered on the powerful theme, "Your
Health is Your Wealth--Mind, Body, and Soul," underscores the vital
importance of holistic well-being within the Black community,
emphasizing mental, physical, and spiritual health as essential
components of personal and collective prosperity; and

WHEREAS, Through engaging discussions, expert panels, and
community-driven initiatives, the 20th Annual Staten Island Black
History Town Hall Meeting will address health disparities, promote
wellness strategies, and encourage pathways toward financial and
emotional empowerment; and

WHEREAS, Hosted at First Central Baptist Church of Staten Island, an
institution which has long been a beacon of faith, service, and
advocacy, this milestone event brings together distinguished leaders,
educators, activists, and health professionals to share knowledge and
inspire action in the pursuit of social justice, economic advancement,
and improved quality of life; and

WHEREAS, The success of the Staten Island Black History Town Hall
Meeting is in direct correlation to the tireless efforts of Rev. Dr.
Demetrius S. Carolina and First Central Baptist Church of Staten
Island, whose unwavering dedication to education, community empowerment,
and the promotion of health and wellness has created a lasting impact;
and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved to acknowledge the profound
significance of this annual event and to commend all those involved for
their efforts in preserving and promoting the invaluable contributions
of the African American community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 20th Annual Staten Island Black History Town Hall
Meeting on February 22, 2025, organized by First Central Baptist Church
of Staten Island and Rev. Dr. Demetrius S. Carolina, with the theme,
"Your Health is Your Wealth--Mind, Body, and Soul," and to honor the
organizers, speakers, and participants who continue to uphold the
principles of knowledge, empowerment, and unity; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to First Central Baptist Church of Staten Island and Rev.
Dr. Demetrius S. Carolina.